Organized Sports and Psychosocial Benefits for Adolescents with Autism: Findings from the 2022 National Survey

This study examined how organized sports activities and physical activity influence psychosocial outcomes in adolescents with autism spectrum disorder, using data from the 2022 National Survey of Children’s Health (n = 717). Adolescents with autism spectrum disorder who participated in organized sports activities reported significantly higher flourishing (1.6 vs. 1.3, p = .043) and better overall health (1.3 vs. 1.4, p < .001) than non-organized sports activities peers. In the non-physical activity subgroup, organized sports activities were associated with improved flourishing (p < .001) and reduced friendship difficulties (p < .001). Two-way ANOVA revealed significant main effects for both physical activity (F = 247.56, p < .001) and organized sports activities (F = 23.21, p < .001) on flourishing, with a significant interaction for overall health (F = 4.41, p = .012). These results suggest that participation in organized sports activities is associated with distinct psychosocial advantages beyond physical activity alone, indicating its potential relevance in promoting well-being among adolescents with autism spectrum disorder.